A high-level Japanese delegation paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The delegation, led by Japan’s Agriculture Minister and Special Envoy Suzuki Norikazu, held a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office at the National Parliament House.
The meeting discussed the expansion of Bangladesh-Japan bilateral relations, trade, investment and development cooperation. The Japanese delegation congratulated the Prime Minister on taking office and hoped to take the relationship between the two countries to new heights. At the same time, the emphasis was placed on the rapid progress of the Economic Partnership Agreement.
Japan has expressed interest in increasing the export of food products to Bangladesh, expanding cooperation in the agriculture and technology sectors. In response, the prime minister said increasing investment in agriculture, electronics and automobile sectors will create jobs and the economy will also be strengthened.
The prime minister also expressed interest in sending skilled Bangladeshi manpower to Japan. He highlighted the potential to send workers, especially in the healthcare and agriculture sectors.
The meeting also discussed the expeditious completion of the Matarbari Deep Sea Port, Dhaka Metro Rail and Hazrat Shahjaalal International Airport Terminal 3 projects under the support of Japan.
Japan’s $17 million aid to tackle the Rohingya crisis came up in the discussion. The prime minister stressed the importance of safe return of the Rohingyas.
The Prime Minister has also been invited to visit Japan. He expressed interest in visiting at a convenient time. Senior officials of the two countries were present at the meeting.